Arts project nets £1m boost for new season

Arts Council England has awarded the money to Creative Scene to fund events at museums and libraries that will reflect local stories, cultures and issues.

The project’s events to date have included lighting up Crow Nest Park lake in There will be Fire production, The Batley Picture Show and HeckmondLIGHT – a programme of digital and light art works that ran alongside the town’s illuminations.

Project director Nancy Barrett said: “It’s great news for the area and for all those who want to get involved in developing opportunities for people here to see and take part in some amazing new arts events.

“We can now really take forward the great ideas that have been bubbling up and develop plans and partnerships right up to 2020.

“People have the highest ambitions for the creative events they want to see, take part in, commission and co-produce.

“By 2020 I think people will be looking to this part of West Yorkshire to find out exactly how to make great art a part of everyday life.”

Victoria Firth, director of the Lawrence Batley Theatre and chairwoman of the Creative Scene consortium, said: “ I am delighted that the importance and success of Creative Scene’s work has been recognised with this award.

“This new funding will mean thousands more people get to enjoy exceptional art and benefit from the difference that creativity can make to communities.

“It is a particular testament to the local people who have been involved in shaping the project and who continue to contribute their energy and ideas to make things happen in their area.”

Creative Scene’s new programme will also include training and learning opportunities.